May
24

Ken Johnson will retire from OPMB July 1

His career in various leadership positions at the Smithsonian spans 20 years.

Secretary Bunch announced Johnson’s retirement May 23. &ldq;Over the past two decades, the Institution have greatly benefitted from the wisdom, guidance, and dedication of Ken Johnson in the various leadership positions he has held in the Office of Planning, Management and Budget,&rdquo said Bunch. “I know you all join me in feeling both gratitude and sadness as Ken retires as Federal Budget Director July 1 after an exceptional career of government service.”

Ken Johnson, Federal Budget Director, Smithsonian Institution. (Photo by Ken Rahaim)

Since 2004 when he joined the Smithsonian, Johnson has helped secure critical federal funding to support the Smithsonian’s operations and strategic initiatives. During his tenure, Smithsonian federal appropriations have more than doubled from roughly $550 million to over $1 billion.  Additionally, Johnson served as an invaluable advisor to leadership at all levels, including several Secretaries and scores of directors. “I know that his thoughtful approaches and insights helped me not just as Secretary, but also as founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture,” Bunch continued.   

Our continued support from Congress and current and past Administrations is a testament to Johnson’s tremendous budget and appropriations expertise. His strategic thinking and collaborative approaches have resulted in enduring positive working relationships with the federal Office of Management and Budget and the Congressional committees that support us. Johnson has shepherded Smithsonian resources carefully and creatively; even during crisis periods of sequestration or shutdown, his efforts have allowed us to function seamlessly, without needing to furlough federal staff.

“Ken has agreed to stay on through the end of June to help with transition efforts.  We will announce his successor later this week,” Bunch concluded. “Please join me in wishing Ken well and in celebrating his many contributions to the Smithsonian.  We have all benefitted greatly from his work.”

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Posted: 24 May 2022
About the Author:

Alex di Giovanni is primarily responsible for "other duties as assigned" in the Office of Communications and External Affairs. She has been with the Smithsonian since 2006 and plans to be interred in the Smithson crypt.